Agfa Graphics to announce new Avalon platesetter series at drupa

The new Avalon N8-90 model for the 8-up or B1 market comes in three different speed options (E, S, and XT) and provides “first-rate imaging quality and an unparalleled productivity.” The Avalon N8-90 engines are equipped with the latest GLV (Grating Light Valve) imaging technology, featuring both the GLV and a solid-state diode bar – and up to 1,024 beams in the XT model. “Thanks to this advanced technology, we can ensure an exceptional imaging speed at a low drum rotation velocity,” said Agfa’s Bruno Lepage, Marketing Product Manager, CtP Equipment, Commercial and Packaging. “Productivity goes beyond speed or plates per hour. The Avalon N8-90 XT is now the fastest thermal drum CtP on the market,” he added. The Avalon N8 series is compatible with all thermal plates from Agfa Graphics. To reach an unparalleled throughput speed of 70 plates per hour, printers can combine the Avalon N8-90 XT with Agfa Graphics’ Energy Elite printing plates.
At drupa May 31 to June 10 in Düsseldorf, Germany, Agfa Graphics will show the Avalon B8 manual thermal platesetter system recently introduced to the European market. Avalon B8 comes in two versions: Avalon B8-24 S and Avalon B8-24 XT. Both models combine manual plate loading with pre-staging. They can also be used with an online processor or clean-out unit to deliver “high operator productivity at an affordable price point.” The systems are most attractive in combination with Agfa Graphics’ ThermoFuse line of chemistry-free plates – including Azura TS, Azura TU and Azura TE. Due to the elimination of all process variables, this offers Avalon B8-24 S/XT users simplified platemaking with clear, consistent results. All Avalon platesetters seamlessly integrate with Agfa Graphics’ PDF-based Apogee workflow to provide high-quality automated plate production control for the commercial, packaging and publishing sectors.